Community: Hometown Heroes

Story by Lifestyle Staff Photos provided by Downtown Visalians

Downtown Visalia will be filled with first responders on the first Saturday in November. But don't worry–it won’t be for an emergency situation. The 4th annual Hometown Heroes event will be hosted by Downtown Visalians. During the event, Main Street from West to Bridge Streets will be closed, and first responders will park their vehicles along the street so visitors can walk freely, interacting with different public agencies.

An opportunity for our community to get to know our first responders.

The goal of Hometown Heroes is to honor and recognize federal, state, county, and public safety agencies who work tirelessly to help make our community as safe as possible. “The event gives an opportunity for our community to get to know our first responders and to say thank you for all they do for us,” says Steve Nelsen, President of Downtown Visalians. Steve launched the family-friendly event after envisioning surrounding counties coming together in downtown Visalia. “We are able to put the different agencies on display and give them a direct opportunity to build relationships with the community they serve,” shares Steve.

During the event, the public will be able to experience interactive demonstrations. They can learn about the different types of first responder equipment, see examples of lifesaving techniques like CPR, and have an opportunity to ask questions about first responder job duties. There will also be a helicopter flyover at 11am. This year, Downtown Visalians will be holding a raffle to raise scholarship funds to benefit graduating seniors who are pursuing a career in public safety. The event is free to the public and downtown businesses will be open as normal.

Event Details

When: November 5, 9am-2pm

Where: Main St from West to Bridge

Hosted by: Downtown Visalians